Although the grid connection is available for every tool, the grid model can be different because of the geographical coverage considered. These are listed in the table below. The basic consideration is that the microgrid or the energy system can import or export electricity from and to the grid. This assumes that the energy system is in one location or the electricity to and from the grid can be aggregated from small energy systems that are connected to the grid in a single location or bus. Import and export are considered separately as the electricity rates can be different for each.
| Software Tool | Geographical coverage | Electrical Network Considerations |
| Calliope | Local, Regional or National | Net transfer capacity between regions |
| DER-CAM | Local, Regional | Import/Export, Power flow, Identify best node in network to install DER |
| HOMER | Local | Import/Export |
| iHOGA | Local | Import/Export |
| REM | Local, Regional or National | Net transfer capacity, one location in the microgrid |
Example REM outputs are shown below:
Source: Ciller, Pedro, and Sara Lumbreras. “Electricity for all: The contribution of large-scale planning tools to the energy-access problem.” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 120 (2020): 109624.